What is "JAD" and why is it used?

Joint Application Development, commonly referred to as JAD, is a facilitated workshop technique that brings together various stakeholders, including users, business analysts, and developers, to jointly define requirements for systems or processes. The primary purpose of JAD is to enhance collaboration and communication among stakeholders to ensure that everyone has a clear understanding of the project goals and requirements.

Using JAD sessions typically results in a more thorough and agreed-upon set of requirements because the collaborative nature of the workshops allows for real-time feedback, clarification of needs, and immediate problem-solving. This collaborative brainstorming approach helps reduce misunderstandings and ensures diverse perspectives are considered, ultimately leading to a more successful outcome that aligns with the stakeholders’ expectations.

The focus of JAD on collaboration distinguishes it from methods that lean more towards independent analysis or documentation without the interactive component, thereby fostering an environment where stakeholder engagement is paramount.